The South Lakes
Sentinel
slsentinel@yahoo.com South Lakes High School (703) 715-4500 11400 South Lakes Dr. Reston, VA 20191
Buzz off Hornets
Tuesday, September 21, 2010 Volume 26, Issue 1
South Lakes football sweeps Herndon Hornets, including 43-0 victory in varsity clash by Bethany Lowe managing editor With five seconds remaining in the first half, senior running back Darius Smith fought of a Herndon defender in the end zone, catching a touchdown pass from sophomore quarterback Rashaan Jones. An eruption occurred both on and off the field in response to a halftime score of 29-0. Seahawk fans knew at this point that the eight-year losing streak was over. South Lakes added
14 points in the third quarter resulting in a final score of 43-0. In 22 carries, Seahawks ran the ball 289 yards with senior Sean Price rushing the ball a total of 131 yards on two carries and scoring two touchdowns. Smith rushed for 88 yards in three carries scoring one touchdown. Smith also caught two touchdown passes. Rashaan Jones completed 4-6 passes for 82 yards and one touchdown. Senior running back Ja’Juan Jones completed his only attempt for
16 yards scoring a touchdown. Defensively, South Lakes was led by senior safety Mikey Bissonnette with 10 tackles. Junior linebacker Kyle Savage recorded 8 tackles while senior defensive end Deon King had 7 tackles, including two sacks. “The defensive line was good all night,” said head coach Andy Hill. “I didn’t really have any concerns except for Stephon Stanford’s injury."
See Herndon game page 11
PHOTO BY ALYSSA SIQUEIROS
A roadside memorial to Jose Villatoro is located at the intersection of Glade and Reston Parkway.
Community saddened by tragic death of student by Kaitlin Welker news editor
PHOTOS BY KALEY DUNCAN
(Left) After the Seahawk's victory, the team received the Baron Cameron Bowl Trophy. (Above right) Sophomore quarterback Rashaan Jones avoids the oncoming rush. Jones completed 4-6 for 82 yards and one touchdown while rushing for 37 yards on five carries. (Bottom right) Senior wide receiver Sean Price takes a handoff during first quarter action. Price carried the ball twice, rushed for 131 yards, and scored two touchdowns.
The class of 2011 lost one of its members over the summer when Jose Villatoro died following a fatal car accident on July 1. Villatoro was crossing Reston Parkway when he was hit by an oncoming car. According to the police report, he was struck by a Toyota pickup truck driven by a local. Villatoro was taken to Inova Fairfax hospital and passed away on July 3. Villatoro’s death deeply affected his family and close friends, including Monica Chowduhry. “I can honestly say I have never met someone so upfront and pure,” said Chowduhry, “You can’t really find that brand of human very often.” “Our whole family really can’t get over it,” said Villatoro’s younger sister Kenia, “He really was just always there for us.”
Although it is still a time of mourning, the Reston community and the Seahawk family came in and helped the Villatoro family through this rough time. “It’s very affirming to see that in such a short amount of time so many people did so much to help the family and put everything aside, especially during the summer,” said principal Bruce Butler. “You just get a little glimpse of the way that the world could be.” So far thousands of dollars have been raised for the Villatoro family, including the donations collected at the Safeway where Jose used to work. “It makes me feel touched because everyone really cared about him and he was a nice worker,” said Kenia Villatoro. “I’m very thankful that a lot of people helped out.” “You just get a little glimpse of the way that the world could be.” said Butler.
First week bus backup creates student concerns
by Kaley Duncan photo editor Many changes have occured at South Lakes at the start of the school year. Student drivers are wishing one change did not occur. Students that drive to school are experiencing longer waits than they did last year due to an adjustment in the location of the bus dropoff. Once entering the student parking lot drivers have to take an immediate left and find spots in the first row of parking because lines of buses take up a large percentage of the students’ parking spaces. As students attempt to park they are stopped and directed by the security officers who tell them where they were allowed to park. Many students are upset with the long wait as they try to enter the parking lot and take the long walk from their cars to the school. “The line is a little better but it’s so annoying that the buses are blocking the parking spaces," said senior Cait-
still unhappy about the hassle of the buses in the morning. “The buses take up a lot of room and the lines are still as long or longer than last year's," senior Kelly Kolb. "It’s ridiculous how long we have to wait." This year parking passes are $200. Paying this large sum of money students expect to have easier access to the parking lot. "It's ridiculous how much money we have to pay for parking passes," said senior Sean Shada. "It doesn't even seem worth it because we have to wait so long." Although parking is a privilege, some students feel that it’s almost a burden to park in the student lot. “I got in an accident with a bus at the end of last year while leaving the parking lot, so it makes me really uncomfortable to be parking and driving near them,” said senior Morgan Alston. Even though most students do not like the change the administrators feel that it is for the best. “The reason we changed the morn-
See Inside
Op/Ed
Page 3 • News 2
lin Ryals. "I have to park so far away." The problem did not end there. As the first school day went on rumors were being spread that no one in the student parking lot would be allowed to leave until all the buses were cleared out which could take until around 2:30 p.m. As students were being dismissed, an announcement by Mr. Butler was made confurming the rumors. Students were told to wait by their cars until the multiple buses exited the lot. While waiting to leave the school, students lingered around the parking lot. The administration realized that the new system for the buses did not work in the afternoon, but kept it the same for the morning. “We decided that the afternoon situation with the buses was potentially unsafe and just didn’t work, so we changed it," said principal Bruce Butler. "However the morning bus system is working out well so we will keep it the same.” However many students are
• Op/Ed 3
New leadership teacher, Mike Astudillo, talks about his plans that he wants to put in action this year as well as his motto, "get on the bus."
• Focus 4
Page 4 • Style 5
ings was to split the traffic into two different lines and make the lines shorter so that students can get to school on time,” said Butler. Security and other administrators had no say in the issue and are just following the rules of the county and school. “The change was predetermined, and I agree with it," said security officer Brian Elliot. "However it was not up to me and some students have been giving me dirty looks as they drive by."
Students living close to South Lakes tend to wait almost three times more than they would if coming to school without traffic. "It usually takes me seven minutes to get from my house to the parking lot," said Kolb. "In the morning it takes me around 20 minutes to go the same distance. I don't see the situation getting better. We're just going to have to deal with it."
PHOTO BY KALEY DUNCAN
Students await entrance to the parking lot during first week of school.
Focus
Centerspread
With over 600 new freshmen attending South Lakes this year, find out what the upperclassmen wish they knew their freshmen year.
As the student population grows, so does the number of teachers. Flip to the centerspread to see what new teachers you'll be seeing in the halls this year.
• Centerspread 6-7
Page 6-7 • Student Life 8-9
• Sports 10-11
2
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
News
“I rarely walk down the main hallway and as I have noticed the mural I haven’t really taken it in and really observed it.” - Laurence Ward, English teacher
The South Lakes Sentinel
NEWS IN BRIEF .
Mentors connect with freshmen mentees, impart words of wisdom
Parking passes
by Will Sweet
Any students who are interested in applying for parking passes can get applications in the Main Office. They are must be turned into the Security Office by the end of the week. Anyone who submitted their parking applications can pick up their permits during all four lunches in the Security Office. Students must have a permit in order to park on campus.
Senior Pictures
Seniors who have not had their senior pictures taken can still get the done on Wednesday, September 22. Check the yellow appointment sheets in the senior locker bay. If just a picture taken for the yearbook is needed without the package, there is no charge. Every senior must have their picture taken.
managing editor
An upperclassmen mentor chooses a secluded location to meet with his group of mentees.
Mentors invade a freshmen English class. Connections occured Wednesday and Thursday of last week
A mentor listens to her freshmen speak. Mentors trained in the weeks leading up to the school year.
The mentor program has quickly become a hallmark of South Lakes. PHOTOS BY KALEY DUNCAN
Senior Orientation
Back to School Night
Back to school night is on Thursday, September 30. Parents are invited to come and get more information about the upcoming school year.
Interims
First quarter interims will be distributed on Thursday, October 7 during first period classes.
Senior Baby Ads and Old Yearbooks
The Yearbook, Freebird, is now taking orders for Senior Baby Ads. The deadline for orders is October 8. Also, there are still a few 20092010 yearbooks left. The purchase price is $80. To arrange for a purchase email Mrs. Abdelrazaq.
Essence Dance Company Fall auditions for the Essence Dance Company have taken place. Audition packets were supposed to have been received in Ms. Terry-Todd’s Room 143.
All-Night Grad Pary Meeting
There will be a meeting to discuss the All-Night Grad Party at 7:00 p.m. in the Career Center on September 29.
Academic Boosters Meeting
Academic Boosters will be conferring on the campus of South Lakes on September 30 at 9:30 a.m. Info can be found at acadbooster@ southlakesptsa.org
New SGA conducts new morning announcements by Melanie Jalim staff writer
South Lakes students are very busy and participate in a variety of activities from football games to Chorus concerts and Deca competitions. To keep track of these important activities, the morning announcements air every day to help all of the students get by in the day with ease. This year the morning news staff consists of the student government of 2010-2011. As most of the seniors, juniors, and sophomores may know, every new announcement crew comes in with a brand new topic to keep the school entertained in the morning. For instance, the seniors of 2008 gave “childish” yet helpful tips to the freshmen who were new to the school. The seniors of 2009-2010 included
Talk
Senior Parent Night
Senior parent night is on Tuesday, September 28 at 7:00 p.m. in the Theatre.
Seahawk
Senior Orientation will be on Thursday, September 23 during Learning Seminar. They will meet in either the Cafeteria, the Lecture Hall, or the Theatre.
Mural situation has students asking questions
What was the biggest news story of the summer?
word, quote, and joke of the day. The seniors that are in the morning news group are student president Maab Yasin, vice president Mary Davis, recording secretary Emily Harper, corresponding secretary Anndi Ligget, and treasurer Will Sweet. “Its pretty nerve racking,” said senior, Maab Yasin, “especially when one of us messes up on a word or an event that will be happening that day or sometime in the week.” This year our morning news announcement group will sing at least once a week and also give random facts of the day. “We are still thinking of ideas,” Maab continued “we also have ideas about spirit week, Pep rallies and other events that will catch the student’s ears as well as their eyes.” Even though students tend to talk during the announcement they also want to hear
“A newstory from the summer was the mine collapse in Chile, the fact that people were still alive and that there are plans to get them out is a big deal.” -Carol Heckman, History Teacher
PHOTO BY MELANIE JALIM The class of 2011 SGA doing the morning annoucnements on September 13. They will be the voices heard over the loudspeaker for the rest of the school year.
what is going on in the school. “I feel that the morning announcements are pretty useful,” said senior Hortance Houngbeke, “but it is only useful when people want to listen.” The morning news will continue to be informative as the school waits to see the unique entertainment the 2011 SGA will provide.
“The flood in Pakistan was a pretty big news story from this summer because so many lives were affected and the country was devastated.” -Daphne Sanchez, Junior
The replacement of General Stanley A. McChrystal with General David Petraeus, the fear was that McChrystal was showing contempt for civilian authority, Petraeus basically accepted a demotion. -Eric Johnson, History Teacher
In the hallowed main hall that extends from the flagpole side to the stadium side of the building lies a lonely mural painted on the white walls of the school. The fact that the mural done by South Lakes graduate Carmen Judy is alone on the wall has some students asking questions. Popular opinion is that there should be more murals to accompany the already existing one. “There should be more [murals],” said senior Max Rosner. Rosner is one of many upperclassmen to have come out in recent weeks in support of other murals. Students are clamoring for additional murals because the one already in the main hall is easy to overlook as it is alone. The mural is negligible enough that some students are not even aware of its existence. “I have never really seen the mural,” said senior Michael Giaon. “The main hall seems just long and bland to me.” In the aftermath of the renovations that took place years ago, students have noticed that there is an enduring dearth of culture evident on the school’s walls. “Art inspires us deeply in a way we don’t even understand,” said sophomore John Kyle, “and that’s why we need more of it on the walls.” Students believe that South Lakes has a surplus of unique personalities and that the school should not hesitate to put them on display on the walls. “Murals make the school more colorful and vibrant,” said sophomore Emerson Bonilla. Bonilla is echoing a sentiment that many students have expressed. Students have grown tired of the school’s bland walls, most notably in the cafeteria. The addition of various blue and green accents to the building has addressed some of students’ concerns about color, although student personality has yet to be expressed.
“A big news story was Hurricane Earl, it was a category four storm. It had a big effect on so many people that, the whole state of North Carolina had to be evacuated” -Michael Somarriba, Junior
“I feel like leaving for lunch would give us more freedom. The cafeteria gets really crowded especially with the 700 new freshmen.” -Kevin Le, senior
The South Lakes
Alyssa’s Editorial
Sentinel Let’s loosen up with lunch 11400 South Lakes Dr. Reston, VA 20191 (703) 715-4500 fax: (703) 715-4597 slsentinel@yahoo.com Managing Editors Alyssa Siqueiros Bethany Lowe Will Sweet Business Manager Julia Cockrill News Editor Kaitlin Welker Features Editor Julie Thomas Sports Editor Emily Lipscomb Seahawk Stories Editor Rebecca Rosenman Staff Artist Cristian Bocanegra Circulation Manager Edgeri Hudlin Staff Writers Clint Bouttavong Kim Gyapong Leslie Hernandez Melanie Jalim Bryan Linsangan Rachel Rogers Adviser Phil Dignan
by Alyssa Siqueiros managing editor As much as I hate to bring up the fiercely debated topic that undoubtedly comes up every school year, I think I have to for my own sanity. If you haven’t guessed already, the widely discussed topic I am talking about is the ridiculous rule of not being able to leave for lunch. Some would argue that if we are old enough and responsible enough to drive a car, get a job, and even vote in political campaigns, we should be allowed to leave for a 30 minute interval to simply get a quick bite to eat. As I can surely relate to this argument, I still have to look at what is stopping us and why. According to teachers and administrators throughout the halls of this highly esteemed facility, the reasoning behind this monstrosity stems from the possible chance of a student getting injured in some way and the school would ultimately be responsible. So basically what this is telling me is that we aren’t allowed to do the simple, everyday task of going out for lunch because the school doesn’t want to be blamed if the decision
ended badly. I know that seems harsh but really, that’s exactly what’s going on. And another thing, why can’t we even eat outside? Hasn’t the school board ever heard the saying “Fresh air does the body good?” Last time I checked it wasn’t a crime to eat a sandwich outside on a nice day. I can understand not being able to leave school for lunch (not really...), but eating lunch outside would mean that we were still on school grounds…what’s so wrong with that? Knowing that most administrators would probably have a real problem with the contents of this article, I will try to have them see this argument from the eyes of a few well respected students as well as my own. Seniors, for example, are about to embark on the “real world” but we’re not allowed to leave for lunch…that seems a little overbearing. Many think that it’s unfair to live by these seemingly ineffective rules. The simple fact of the matter is we just don’t want to eat the same cafeteria food every day, but don’t get me wrong, it’s not because the food is bad. It’s just that we want a change, not just in food, in our everyday school life too. We are confined to the walls of this high school seven hours a day, five days a week, 39 weeks a year, four years in a high school experience. Not that the idea of spending all that time in one place isn’t appealing, a change every now and then would just be nice.
What’s What with Will? The South Lakes Sentinel is an open forum publication serving the South Lakes High School community. The Sentinel solicits letters to the editor. Letters must be signed. The editorial board reserves the right to edit such letters for grammar, usage, clarity, punctuation, and length. The Sentinel will publish no material, including advertising, that is libelous, obscene, or has a clear potential for disruption of the school routine, as has generally been determined by law. The Sentinel staff will make every effort to avoid conflicts of interest, to be fair and balanced in reporting, and to reflect the diverse population of South Lakes High School. The content of The Sentinel is determined by the editorial board. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the faculty advisor, administration of South Lakes High School, or Fairfax County Public Schools. The Sentinel is a member of the following scholastic organizations:
The Sentinel is printed by Silver Communications.
This Day in History Space station atlantis docks with international space station in 2000.
Class of ‘11 deserves first class treatment
by Will Sweet managing editor There’s one thing I hate more than anything in the world: that John Mayer song where he beats the same line into our heads brutally and mercilessly over and over, (Let me give you some advice, John. Maybe she would say what she needs to say if you piped down and gave her a chance. Also, stop making music). There is one thing I hate almost as much, though. And that’s the Class of 2011 not receiving the full, timehonored privileges that it has earned through 3-plus years of dedicating countless time and immeasurable effort to achieving the highest possible success in high school. This should be a no-brainer. It’s the way business is done—you pay your dues, and some years later, you’ll be rewarded. Obviously, South Lakes doesn’t operate this way, at least not towards its students. Let’s get one thing straight, the Class of 2011 is special. We are the last living remnants of the South Lakes of old, not including faculty. Our class was innocent and jejune back when we began high school in the fall of 2007. We all have grown
along with South Lakes itself. I wouldn’t have used the word “jejune” back then. Times were simpler. When the Class of 2011 leaves South Lakes, there won’t be any students left who remember the way South Lakes once was. The school has changed not only physically but there has been a change in the atmosphere also. With all of the students who in the past would have gone to Oakton or Madison now coming to South Lakes, South Lakes is becoming more and more like Oakton and Madison. You could argue this is a good thing, but there are distinctive South Lakes traits and quirks that have fallen by the wayside. And the Class of 2012 isn’t going to carry any of those quirks after we’ve left. So as a way of paying respects to the passing of an era at South Lakes, we should celebrate and revere the last class that embodies that old spirit. Listen, I would be fine with having no privileges. I don’t need privileges to get things done. I don’t need to be lauded with hollow high school concessions to feel good about myself. But the sad reality is that there are some people who do. By the way, I had written a scathing piece about the parking lot fiasco after the first day of school but fortunately, the school promptly switched back to the old system so it didn’t need to be published. You’ll have to wait until The South Lakes Sentinel:Raw and Uncut comes out at the end of the year to read it.
Tuesday September 21, 2010
Op/Ed
The South Lakes Sentinel Guest Editorial
3
ART BY CRISTIAN BOCANEGRA
Get on the bus South Lakes by Michael Astudillo leadership sponsor What’s up South Lakes? My name is Mike Astudillo, my students call me Mr. A, and I am humbled and honored to be one of the newest members of Seahawk nation. I cannot fully express how excited I am to be here at this school, right now. In life, timing is everything and I honestly believe this is the perfect time to be a Seahawk. The school looks amazing after it’s renovation a few short years ago. We have a dedicated and caring principal who just received the 2010 Spillane Leadership award. We have a brand new football and basketball coach who both have come from successful programs and both know what it takes to lead teams to the top. We have a strong and growing IB program that sets up students for such amazing opportunities in the future. Our performing arts department and clubs and activities are some of the finest in all of Fairfax County. We have a faculty this year that has so many outstanding new teachers with fresh and exciting ideas, while at the same time we have veteran teachers with a wealth of experience and Seahawk tradition that it seems like a perfect mix. In other words, this is the right time and place for so much excitement, you better be ready for a great ride! Speaking of a great ride, along
with being a new Assistant DSA in the activities office and teaching Information Systems in the business department, I’ve also signed up to teach the SGA/Leadership class along with Mr. Greene and our students are about to hop “on the bus.” A “Get on the Bus” mentality is how I lead the classes I teach, and the leadership class will definitely be rolling this year. We had an SGA workshop on September 3rd where SGA officers led team building activities, planning sessions, and brainstorming meetings with class councils and leadership class students. Homecoming was one of the many topics discussed and school service also took place as we helped set up bulletin boards around the school. As it has been over the years with South Lakes SGA, community service will be a big part of what we accomplish throughout the year and we also plan on working with the Reston Community Center to directly influence our local community. One traditional item to keep an eye out for includes all of the homecoming week activities from October 18 – 23. The pep rally proves to be one of the best ever as the largest freshmen class in recent memory will have a legitimate shot at winning the spirit stick just based on their sheer numbers. Hope your class is ready to go. Also, SGA sponsored events like “Seahawks Got Talent,” June Jam, and a Dance-a-thon are on the drawing board. Who knows, this could be the year that sets the bar for years to come. Are you ready to get pumped for this school year? Are you just going to stand at the bus stop? Because from where I’m sitting, it seems like the perfect time to get on the bus. Let’s roll Seahawks…the time is now.
Hey Seahawks!
Do you want your voice to be heard? Write a letter to the editor. It can be about the newspaper or any topic you feel needs to be addressed preferably in 200 words or less.
4 New freshmen class, new concerns Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Focus
“My freshman year was really fun and a good experience.”
-Marvin Campanilla, senior
The South Lakes Sentinel
What I wish I knew freshman year by Julie Thomas features editor
Starting school in the fall can be nerve racking for anyone, but for incoming freshmen high school can be even scarier. Upperclassmen have the advantage of familiarity in high school but freshmen are in a completely new environment. To help make the transition from middle school to high school easier, junior and senior mentors are available to guide freshmen through the first year. While upper classmen have had many high school experiences, freshmen are just begin to create their own. Some upperclassmen share insights into what they wish they knew their freshman year. “Take advantage of the easier classes to bring up your GPA before you get into harder classes in your sophomore and junior years,” said senior Kirstie Fleger.
Junior Elise Cross advises freshman to get involved in various activities throughout the school. “Become involved in sports and clubs early in the year,” said Cross. “It is a good way to meet new people and be a part of the South Lakes community.” Whether it is becoming involved in a sports team, a club, theater, or a study group with some classmates, being a part of something will ease the transition into high school. Another way to make the journey through high school easier is to get to know the administrators and staff. “One thing I would do my freshman year is get to know my counselor, so by the time I was a senior trying to apply to college they knew me,” said senior Sean Shada. One of the benefits of being in high school is going to homecoming and experiencing the rivalry of
classes during spirit week. “Spirit week is one of the most fun weeks of school,” said senior Morgan Alston. “It is great to see everyone’s school spirit and pride. I also love Powderpuff and the competition between classes.” One opportunity to become involved in the South Lakes community is to take Leadership class. Leadership students plan school activites, such as homecoming and spirit week. Senior Katie Cunningham gives the advice to freshman to stay on task. “I wish I had not gotten into the habit of procrastinating on papers and assignments,” said Cunningham. “Stay ahead of your work freshman year before it gets too hard.” One way that South Lakes helps freshmen adjust is by assigning them a mentor. This upperclassmen mentor can be a friendly face to mingle in the hallways with.
PHOTO BY KALEY DUNCAN
Freshmen try to navigate to their classes during the freshmen orientation. Mentors were available to help.
“Freshmen should socialize with people from all grades in order to have a variety of friends, rather than just sticking to people in your own grade,” said junior Christy Hoffman. Although freshman year can be
Freshmen class outnumbers the rest by Rachel Rogers staff writer
The 2010-11 school year brings to South Lakes the largest student body yet, as a freshmen class bordering 650 students invades the halls. This year’s freshmen have overtaken last year’s freshmen class, which up to now was the largest class in the school. Every year there are complaints and praise for the newest additions to the school, which range from longer lunch lines, to crowded halls, to more competition to earn a spot on a sports team. Assistant sports director Mike Astudillo sees the increase in size as a positive. “I think it’s a good thing,” said Astudillo. “It will be easier to do fundraisers and will promote athletics more.” This school also has many other
aspects that the new freshmen affect. The student body has grown so large that new lockers have been installed in the lower level of the school. The lunch schedule has also been changed back into four sessions instead of three. Even the Hype Squad has seen major im-
and activities of South Lakes, many of the upperclassmen are accepting them into the Seahawk family, and in many ways they already are. “A lot of the freshmen are younger siblings of people in the senior class,” said fellow senior Hype Squad leader Harrison
“We are lucky to have so many freshmen.”
- Brendan Galbraith, senior
provements as more students join the well known sports fans. “We are lucky to have so many freshmen,” said senior hype squad leader Brendan Galbraith. “We want to unify the school and have all classes join in the Hype Squad.” With the freshmen being integrated into the different branches
Hughes. “We try to send out a message saying freshmen please attend.” Of course not everything is going smoothly for the newest members of the school. There are still a few that are not happy with the large class of 2014. “We’re more epic,” said sopho-
more Catherine La Valley. “The freshmen need to be put in their place.” However, not all upperclassmen have this view towards the class of 2014. “I don’t mind the freshmen,” said junior Daniel Thompson. “Besides the crowded hallways, I do not even notice them.” With the freshmen class sizes increasing every year, the class of 2011 will be the last to graduate in the South Lakes gymnasium. Starting with the class of 2012, graduations will be held off campus, most likely at the George Mason University Patriot Center. Due to class rivalries, the freshmen will always be at the bottom of the high school totem pole. However, with the growing number of freshmen there seems to also be a growing acceptance for the newest members of the South Lakes community.
difficult or stressful at times, senior Alex Turner keeps a positive attitude. “Enjoy freshman year and have fun” said Turner. “It will be over fast and you’ll be a senior before you know it.”
Current Class Numbers the recently graduated class of 2010 had
391 students the graduating class of 2011 has
461 students The class of 2012 has
507 students The class of 2013 has
533 students The class of 2014 has
644 students PHOTO BY KALEY DUNCAN
Freshmen students attend orientation on September 2. Orientation allowed freshmen students to meet administrators and teachers and to get familiar with the location of their classrooms.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Style
“This summer I went to the Jack Johnson concert, and it was completely awesome. It was definitely the best summer concert.” -Kari Cantwell, senior
Current Fashion Trends
Music review
Iron Maiden: the final frontier by Clint Bouttavong staff writer With the release of their last album, “A Matter of Life and Death,” it looked like Iron Maiden had out done themselves. But this new record could be considered their magnum opus, old school maiden fans will feel right at home listening to “The Final Frontier”. And it will absolutely attract a new generation of fans to this now legendary band. The first track off the record “Satellite 15…The Final Frontier” starts off the album at a slower pace. A distinct rhyme section is driven by drummer Nicko McBrain and bassist Steve Harris. But that doesn’t mean guitarists Dave Murray, Adrian Smith, and Janick Gers can’t keep up, they hold their own with their usual triple guitar assault. Though the guitar parts may seem repetitive, many fans and critics alike will see it as straight to the point with no frills. Vocalist Bruce Dickinson soars through the track with his usual operatic style of singing, though it is much more toned down than the following tracks.
PHOTOS BY ALYSSA SIQUEIROS
With the start of a new school year, new fashion trends are seen throughout the halls. Girls have been sporting the rugged “hipster” look which entails a loose top, skinny jeans, and a pair of the popular Toms. Right now boys are into a skater/prep look which usually includes a simple tee, straight leg jeans/ plaid shots, with a pair of Nike’s, Vans, or Sperry’s and crew socks.
Summer time makes for new movie reviews by Bryan Linsangan staff writer
Most Americans enjoy watching movies in their downtime and summer gave us plenty of downtime. This summer definitely had its fair share of movies. Good and bad. From the greatness of “Inception” to the mega fail of “The Last Airbender”, the batch of summer 2010 movies definitely had us talking. Here are four stand outs. Inception - This summer box office hit was the frequent subject of Facebook statuses and had everyone questioning “What is my life, right now?” Are we living in some alternate dream world where one way to determine your existence is through using a totem? “Inception” pulled in the big crowd because of its action and suspense, not to mention its A-list cast. Leonardo DiCaprio plays a master thief who, in order for his criminal records to be erased enabling him to see his children again, must plant an idea in a rival company. The Last Airbender - Critics and many viewers agreed that “The Last Airbender” failed to live up to its hype. Beginning from the mispronounced names to some missing characters, that was just the start of it. This mov-
Overall, “Satellite 15...The Final Frontier” is a nice opener to an album full of great material. The next track “El Dorado” opens up with a galloping bass line by Harris which would feel right at home in any Iron Maiden album. Nothing like the last song on this track has heavier guitar parts, and a beautiful three way solo near the end. When you have three guitarists, you might as well put them to use. Dickinson’s lyrics deal with the mythical city of gold, and how greed drove people to go in search of it and compares it to the modern world’s current economy. Two things come to mind while listening to “The Man Who Would Be King”, Dungeons and Dragons and Lord of the Rings. The song takes the listener on a journey through the mystical realms that classic metal was set in. Right around the two minute mark the guitars and drums build up to thundering crescendo around 2:21. Older Maiden fans will love this track because it’s such a throwback to the bands earlier works. “Mother of Mercy” starts off with a solemn guitar section setting the
tone for this reflective track. Telling the story of a dying soldier telling someone of the dark things he did fighting for his country. Dickinson takes on the role of the dying soldier, his vocals peaking at the chorus as he captures the mood of the song. The guitars definitely lead the track, misleading the listener into thinking the song will be slower. But right around 1:25 is when Murray, Smith, and Gers switch gears and attack the listeners ears with truly memorable riffs. Returning to the studio where they recorded “Powerslave” and “Somewhere In time” Maiden has captured the feeling and tone of their earlier years while keeping the album fresh and current. When a band has been around as long as Iron Maiden, it’s usually hard to keep up with the times. Maiden on the other hand have no problem with that, no matter how old they get they’ll still have legions of fans there to support them and their music. Maiden never ceases to amaze and this album is no exception, so sit back, relax, and up the irons.
Lakeside Asia Cafe Telephone : (703) 391-9070 11130-J South Lakes Drive Reston, Va 20191 Visit us at WWW.LAKESIDEASIACAFE.COM
We Deliver! Within a 3 mile Radius
ie adaptation is not recommended for the loyal and die-hard fans of the original animated series as they will think about how much ‘Ang’ is mispronounced.
The Karate Kid - This movie introduces us to the ‘Mr. Han’ played by Jackie Chan and ‘Dre Parker’ played by Jaden Smith combination. Dre’s mother’s latest career move lands them in China and Dre finds himself in a completely new environment. Dre is met by school bullies who all happen to know some sort of martial arts. This renewal is worth watching and is even enjoyable for the old ‘The Karate Kid’ fans. It’s a fun, feel good, well-made film. Despicable Me – The world’s greatest villain, Gru is dropped with a bombshell. Make that three. The triple bombshell are three little girls named Margo, Edith and Agnes. Gru must face the challenge of becoming a dad for the three orphans, who find shelter despite Gru’s dubious and problematic behavior. Agnes steals the show with her cute expressions and fun one liners like “It’s so fluffy!” This fun animated film almost reaches the height of the Pixar films and still provides fun and young entertainment. Gru might just end up stealing your heart by the end of the movie.
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New Year,
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New Teachers
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
The South Lakes Sentinel
South Lakes High School welcomes over 30 new faculty members
“I am thrilled to be working at South Lakes. I have been teaching for 20 years, but Reston is my community and I am glad to say now that South Lakes is my home.” -Scholla
sh
gli , En
rs
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“I went to Herndon, but I guess I can learn to love South Lakes. It is a great school.” -Jones
Tabith a
“South Lakes has a lot of school spirit and I am excited to be a part of this environment.” -Campione
rnandez
h
“This will be my first year teaching in Virginia, but I have worked the whole DMV. Everyone has been very nice and friendly and I am so excited to go to all of the football games!” -Smith-James
Morgan Jones, English
Emily “I am stoked to be here at South Lakes. I am really excited to come out of retirement to be a teacher.” -Myers
Wisc ho
w, Ch e
la, G
l
cho
sics
hy eo/P
“I am very excited to be here. I am ready to rock and have fun learning.” -Trigiano
Rebecca Cam
pione, Spanis
, HPE
ggan ew Du
Andr
h
“Even though this is my first year as a teacher at South Lakes, I don’t feel new. I have been working with the basketball team and I am looking forward to the season.” -Duggan
y
mith, M
ath
“I am very enthusiastic about this school year. It will be my 9th year teaching, but this year will be one of the best.” -Smith (math)
“It is such an honor to work with the amazing students and teachers here at South Lakes.” -Galanti
mistr
Adam S
Sean Lanigan, HPE
nglish
urn, E r Ashb
e
Jennif
glish
Ste
, Englis
“I am looking forward to this year, especially because this will be my first year teaching. South Lakes is a great place to start my career.” -Lauer
on, En
nS phe
Lisa Trigiano, English
Lisa He
Morris
Patricia Smith, English
Kimberly Baram, Math
Terrie Galanti, Math
Not featured: Michael Astudillo, Virginia Bagg, Fabiana Ciammaichella, Sheila Colbert-Alzate, Rachael Crawford, Lynne Gober
Seahawk
Talk
Do you have any new teachers this year?
“He is really cool and a good teacher. I also like him because he doesn’t give too much homework.”
- Matt Carrero, freshman
(Mr. Hill, history)
“I like Mr. Smith. He seems like a really good teacher so far.” -Nicholas Horvath, junior (Mr. Smith, geometry)
ath
uer, M
La Brian
Jacqueline Smith-James, Math
Pam Green, Anthony Handy, Andy Hill, Adam Podell, Jonathan Pruess, Carolgene Reardon, Rebecca Schott, Tor Strom, Katherine Williamson
“He is very interesting and has a lot of cool stories to tell.” - Alberto Molina, senior (Mr. Pruess, geosystems)
“She is really nice and is very helpful when I have questions.” -Marcus Harrell, freshman (Ms.
“Mr. Scholla is really great. He makes physics fun, even though it is a boring subject.” -Mitch Dempster, junior (Mr. Scholla, physics)
“She is alright. She gives a lot of work, but she is really nice.” -Matt Carr, sophomore (Ms. Baram, math)
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Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Student Life
“Mentor training was really great. We played the mouse trap game and that was really fun. I learned about myself.” -Jessie Ehrhardt, senior
The South Lakes Sentinel
Upperclassmen mentors train by smacking mouse traps by Bethany Lowe managing editor South Lakes leadership students spent some of their final week of summer getting ready for the 2010-2011 school year. August 30-31, upperclassmen that were selected for the taking flight mentor program attended training class to get ready for the mentor connections that will take place once a month beginning in September. Mentors participated in many activities including one that was a bit nerve-racking. “When they said that we had to slap a mouse trap I got really nervous, but then my partner said he really wanted to do it,” said junior Emily Lopynski. “Even then I was nervous I would mess up directing him.” Other than smacking mouse traps, mentors learned how to connect with their freshmen and
to help them to the best of their ability in making it a successful school year. Freshmen students will have a mentor to meet with once a month for half an hour during their English class. Not only is this a time to get out of English class, freshmen are able to talk to someone if they need it and do an assortment of team building activities and games. The leadership class also gathered to take part in a leadership conference on Friday, September 3 to start planning for the school year. Discussions included logo, slogan and homecoming planning. The leadership class will decide the themes and spirit days for homecoming week. Both the leadership class and the mentor program have great plans for the 2010-2011 school year.
SGA and Leadership students work on Sep. 3 to come up with innovative solutions that will drive South Lakes forward in a tough economic climate.
PHOTO BY ALYSSA SIQUEIROS
Brad Cohen shows off his battle scars after having weeks of healing. Cohen’s scars are from a fall he took while running during cross country practice this summer and an emergency hospital visit.
Brad Cohen receives injury
by Alyssa Siqueiros managing editor Junior Brad Cohen has been running all of his life. He has been a part of South Lakes’ cross country and track teams for his entire time in high school. That’s why it was more than surprising when one day of cross country practice turned into one of the worst days of his life. Since the season started, each member of the team has a daily routine once practice starts. They all go through their warm-up routine, they do dynamic work outs, then they go on a 40-60 minute distance run. This whole routine seems pretty basic, but that’s not how the team saw it when their leader, Cohen, approached an unexpected dip
in the path and wound up in the hospital. As the story goes, Brad was on a distance run with the rest of his team, leading the pack when approaching the dip. As he ran over the break in the path, he fell on what could have been glass, metal, or a rock and severely punctured his leg. He was lucky enough to be near fellow teammate Kevin Muir’s house, whose neighbor is a nurse. She cleaned up his leg before he was taken to the hospital. Once arriving at the hospital he had to undergo multiple procedures. He had to get 23 stitches, and he still has a few of them in. And as if that wasn’t hard enough, he had to continue to plan the Seahawk Block Party. He has been in the leadership
scene for his entire time here at South Lakes. Last year he was a part of 2012 class council as well as being the youngest student in the leadership class. He loves to have a say in school activities. Being so involved in school events, he took it upon himself to create a big fundraiser for the first football scrimmage for the season. He did not let his injury stop him from seeing all of his hard work in action. Just days after his fall, he was sure enough to make an appearance at the block party. He is in recovery now, but he has to wait until mid to late November to start running again. Cohen says he will continue his quest to silence those who have doubted his ability to heal quickly.
Teachers offer tips as year begins “Students should be responsible, prepared, and they should challenge themselves academically.” Mentors form a circle as part of a group activity to train for the upcoming year. Forming a circle is an effective way of making everyone visible to each other.
- Mr. Walker Administrator “Communication. Life happens. Make sure you keep in touch with your teachers.” -Mrs. Finley World Language teacher
“Check blackboard, get assignments done early, and ask for help.” Mentors continue their training exercises by breaking down into smaller circles and sitting on the floor. Having students sit on the floor creates an informal atmosphere that encourages candid discussion. PHOTOS BY KALEY DUNCAN
- Mrs. Schrek English teacher
“Study. If you don’t have good study habits or don’t know how to study, visit your teachers.” -Mrs. Walters Social Studies teacher
“Get to class on time. Have fun and learn.” -Mr. Smith English teacher “Get involved in extra-curricular activites. It’s a good way for students, teachers, and staff to know each other. Disconnect from personal technology in the classroom and just wake up every day as if it’s a new day.” -Mrs. Meagher ESOL teacher
yearbook
order your copy of the 2011 FREEBIRD
Buy your SLHS YEARBOOK for $70 if you order by
OCTOBER 8. order forms available from the subschools, English teachers, and from the SLHS homepage
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Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Sports The South Lakes Sentinel
“It was fun bringing the Hype Squad to the volleyball game. Players get tired, but when they hear the crowd screaming they want to win for the crowd, we also effect the other team.” -Harrison Hughes, senior
XC wins 1st, 2nd in last two meets
Fall Sports Schedule .
Football
by Bryan Linsangen staff writer
This year’s cross country team enjoying increased success. Based on their recent meets at both Bull Run Park and the Monroe Parker Invitational, the team’s destination this year is heading toward the top. In the first meet of the season, cross country placed 1st, beating out West Potomac. In the Monroe Parker Invitational on September 11, 35 schools competed against the Seahawks. The team managed to finish 2nd place, losing to West Potomac who they beat last meet. “I’m disapointed because we proved we could beat West Potomac last meet but this week we did not do as well as we could have,” said senior Nick Guarnaccia. Even though the team did not finish first many of the runners feel their performance was above average. “The meet last weekend went really great, actually,” said senior Will Sickenberger. “Finishing second felt pretty good.” Sickenberger finished 8th overall with a time of 15:49. Finishing just six seconds behind Sickenberger was Guarnaccia, who finished with a time of 15:55 and 10th place overall. The cross country team started off the season with a standout performance and hope to continue for the rest of the season. “I think we did well in the past two meets and our team is full of good talent so I think we have a good chance this season,” said Sickenberger. The cross country team will next compete at the Oatlands Invitational on September 25. is
September 24 - Marshall October 1 - @ McLean October 8 - Madison October 15 - Fairfax October 22 - Dominion (Homecoming Game)
Field Hockey
PHOTO COURTESY OF BRENDA CROSS
September 22 - @ Mount Vernon September 28 - McLean October 1 - @ Fairfax October 6 - @ Madison October 13 - Marshall October 15 - Jefferson
Volleyball
September 23 - Washington and Lee September 29 - @ Hayfield October 4 - @ Jefferson October 6 - Robert E. Lee October 12 - @ Marshall
Co-Ed Golf
District tournaments at Herndon Centennial run September 22-23.
Cross Country
September 25 - Oatlands Invitational September 29 @ Lake Fairfax October 6 - @ Burke Lake October 9 - Glory Days Invitational October 14 - @ Lake Fairfax
The volleyball team celebrates a block made by junior Sarah Delaney and senior Bethany Lowe in their game against J.E.B. Stuart on September 13. They beat the Raiders 3-2.
Hyped volleyball defeats Stuart in comeback victory by Kaitlin Welker news editor
On Monday, September 13, the South Lakes varsity volleyball team was down 15-25 in the first game against J.E.B. Stuart. However, after losing the second game, they managed to come back and win the next three games. “We had a pretty bad past with J.E.B. so when we were down the two games, I guess our rivalry motivated us to take three sets off of them causing us to win.” said sophomore Annemarie Bresson. Last season the varsity team was invited to play at the Raider Rumble, a tournament hosted by J.E.B. Stuart where they played neck-and-neck to an eventual Seahawk victory.
The team describes the Raiders as their “unofficial rivals”. “It was so intense and I think it was the best our team has ever played,” said Bresson. “We all played off of each other’s enthusiasm and energy.” Using their history against Stuart as a motivator, the Seahawks came back from the two losses and beat the Raiders, with a little help. “We watched the team go down 2-0,” said senior Brendan Galbraith. “With the help of the Hype Squad, the girls dug down and won three straight games to victory.” The Seahawk Hype Squad was loud and excited as South Lakes defeated J.E.B. Stuart once more time. “Normally we don’t have many people at our games, so hav-
ing an entire Hype Squad was freaking exciting.” said Bresson. After the team’s success, the Hype Squad stormed onto the court. “It was super intense. At the end they took their shirts off and were waving them enthusiastically.” said sophomore Dory DeWeese. In the flood of Seahawk students, angry referees tried to break up the crowd. After the Hype Squad returned to their seats, the players exchanged congratulatory high-fives. “It was the greatest comeback in South Lakes history,” said sophomore Peter Moran. The volleyball team’s next game is on September 23 against Washington and Lee at home.
Fall sports captains reflect on current season The senior class of 2010 has come and gone, and with it were captains and leaders of various sports teams. Fall sports are left to find their leaders in the fresh batch of seniors, the class of 2011, and other designated players. The new captains of the fall teams have high hopes for the season and the team’s prospect.
Senior Anndi Liggett Cheerleading
Senior Kelly Kolb Volleyball
“We have a lot more potential than last year, winning the Stuart game was a big deal and it got everyone excited for the rest of the season.”
Senior Will Sickenberger Cross Country
Senior Marcos Perez Golf
“Right now, we’re doing a lot better than last year. We have districts coming up so we have to get in better shape.”
Senior Ja’Juan Jones Football
“It’s going to be a great season and we’re aiming to go to playoffs because we’re working hard and playing together.”
Senior Jessica Ehrhardt Field Hockey
Senior Giselle Duran Dance Team
“We’re doing good. There’s a lot of talent on the team, and we have won our previous games.”
“Our season is going great and everybody is coming together. We’re looking really good out on the field at football games.”
Cheerleading
October 2 - Parkview Spiritfest District Cheer begins October 19
“It’s hard having only two seniors on the team, but it’s also good because we’re creating the best chear squad for future years.”
“Hopefully, we’ll do very well. We won this last meet which was very unexpected, so we can just hope to continue the good work.”
“I pulled my groin last year during football season and I was out for two weeks, I was jealous and sad that my teammates were playing and I could not be a part of that but after taking the time to heal I was ready to play again.” -Daniel Thompson, junior
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Sports The South Lakes Sentinel
Football team goes in new direction
THE
LOWE DOWN
DC teams
mend injuries
Hill hired as head coach by Kaley Duncan photo editor
As the new football season is off to a winning start, South Lakes Seahawks are excited to continue watching what the new coach has offered. Andy Hill has had many years experience in coaching football. He was an assistant coach for seven years, and was head coach for five years at Parkview High School in Sterling. He took Parkview’s team to Regionals four of the five seasons he coached there. The South Lakes 2009 football season started off well and ended with five consecutive losses. The team is hoping that Coach Hill can change that pattern. “Last year there were a lot of talented players,” said senior Mikey Bisonette. “We didn’t work very well together as a team which is why we couldn’t keep our winning streak going.” Coach Hill as well as many of the senior football players have high expectations for the 2010 season. This year Hill plans on making conditioning a more vigorous part of the team’s workout. “Last year for conditioning the boys ran until they got tired, but this year conditioning starts when the team gets tired,” said head coach Andy Hill. “We need to be able to play all the way through games and still be consistently completing plays.” The players have definitely noticed how the changes in practice have improved their playing. “I noticed that since we’ve done more conditioning the plays have
gotten crisper because we don’t get as tired,” said senior Sean Price. The new practice regimen appears to work, as the Seahawks have played their first three games against Falls Church, Thomas Jefferson, and Herndon and have walked away with three wins including two shut outs. Many of the players were skeptical of getting a new coach at first but now all seem to have a positive outlook. “I was sad to see Ellenberger leave because he was like a father figure to me,” said senior Ja’Juan Jones, “but I’ve come to respect Coach Hill, I think he will do great things for our team.” “Coach Hill is a great coach and he is always positive and he knows exactly how to motivate the players,” said senior Darius Smith. Not only is Hill improving the team but he has a good relationship with the players. “I came from Stonewall Jackson and our coaches weren’t very good,” said senior Deon King. “Coach Hill is way better because he really relates to the players and knows how to interact with the parents.” Hopefully the positive attitudes from the team will help in their efforts to win more games this season. “I’m hoping to go undefeated this season and advance to districts because with so much talent and better coaching the team is looking very promising,” said Hill. The Seahawks’ next game is against Marshall on Friday, September 24 at 7:30.
by Bethany Lowe managing editor PHOTO BY KALEY DUNCAN
Lucian Fox tees off on the first hole in their game against Fairfax on September 15. Fox is in the one spot on the team and he starts the games.
Golf goes into district play 0-6 by Emily Lipscomb, sports editor
Despite the 0-6 season for the varsity golf team, head coach Bob Gardiner thinks there is a lot of talent on the team. “The most consistent players that play in the 1 and 2 spots are Lucian Fox and Nick Beaulac,” said Gardiner. Six players play in each match, even though only four of the scores are counted. Sophomore Eugenia Witherow is the only girl playing on the coed varsity team. However, Gardiner sees interest from girls. “At tryouts there was so such a large interest from girls, we had to make a new team,” said Gardiner. “It’s something we’re all very excited about.” The coed team begins District matches on Wednesday September 22.
Herndon game From Page 1
In a night of big plays, Hill pointed out a blocked punt by Price. “One of the biggest highlights would probably be the blocked punt because if you block a punt you win about 90% of the time,” said Hill. Despite the huge win, South Lakes was penalized often. Two touchdown plays covering over 60 yards were called back due to holding calls. An emotional moment in the game occurred when Rashaan Jones was injured in the second quarter. “At one point, when Rashaan got injured, #44 on the Herndon team tried to get the fans to cheer for the injury,” said senior lineman Belmin Rivera. “Often if we’re winning by a lot halfway through the game, our coach will put in JV players to give them field time, but he saw this and was so angry that he just kept put-
ting in varsity players for the whole game.” Players are recognizing the impact coach hill is having on the team. “This year is different than in the past because our new coach is focusing on making our team more of a family and we all feel connected to each other,” said Rivera. The Seahawk football team won a game that was important to them as a family last Thursday night. “I was so happy, there were many tears of joy after I saw the final score,” said Smith. “We’ve wanted to beat Herndon for so long and we finally reached that goal.” South Lakes improved to 3-0 on the season, outscoring its opponents 119-7. The Seahawks will host 1-2 Marshall Statesmen Friday night.
Field hockey fights to improve losing record by Emily Lipscomb sports editor
The girls’ varsity field hockey team is 1-8 so far this season, after coming out of two losses against Falls Church and a loss against Langley with a score of 5-1. The Lady Seahawks hope to boost their record. Their last win was against Wakefield in August. The game against Falls Church was tied at the end of regulation causing a 15-minute overtime. Still tied, another 15-minute overtime was issued and ended at a 0-0 score. Five penalty strokes were taken to break the tie, which was unsuccessful, leading to sudden death. The team does not have a leading scorer but there are talented athletes on the field. “Bethany Kehne is a great stopper for the team, she really stands out on the field,” said head coach Jennifer Diana. “Kaylee Mueller is a star on defense and Lisi Mueller is an asset
PHOTO BY KALEY DUNCAN
Junior Bethany Kehne advances the ball in the game against Falls Church on September 14. Falls Church defeated South Lakes in double overtime, the score was 2-2 but the Jaguars won in sudden death.
to the offense playing as a forward.” According to Diana, the problem came even before the season started. “We need to do more in the offseason,” said Diana, “I mean if they come into the season out of shape and lacking in stick skills, we have to put the fo-
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cus on that instead of winning.” This is the second consecutive season with Diana as head coach of the field hockey team. “We want to be a winning team and we work hard, it’s just that the team can’t seem to pull out the win despite the good things
they do in the game,” said Diana. Seniors Jessica Ehrhardt and Morgan Barlow lead the team as captains this year. “I think we lose because we don’t communicate well on the field,” said Ehrhardt, the four year varsity player, “We’re not listening to each other and it shows.” Despite the lack of communications, Barlow still has high hopes for the team and their potential for the rest of the season. “It’s a good start for us. Everybody is working hard and the only thing we can do from here is get better,” said Barlow. The next game for the Lady Seahawks is September 22 at Mount Vernon. Field Hockey will play at home on September 28 against McLean. “Even though we’ve lost past games,” said Ehrhardt, “we’re adjusting to how the other girls play and hopefully we can start pulling out some wins.”
Many of the professional sports teams from DC generally do not shut out teams, have undefeated seasons, or win championships, yet some of their athletes have had to learn to treat their injuries seriously this season. Even dedicated Redskins fans would most likely admit that the 2009-2010 season was full of misfortune, issues with the coaching staff, injured players and the lack of an offensive line. With a new coaching staff and offensive line it seems the injuries just keep on coming. In their preseason game on August 27 against the New York Jets, the team had four players in their injury report including new to the roster, starting quarterback, Donovan McNabb, for an ankle injury. When McNabb originally signed with the Redskins there was much discussion about taking an older player and his risk of injury, unfortunately just as predicted third game into preseason he made the list. The Nationals had a large injury of their own this season. After a non-miraculous season was underway, rookie pitcher Stephen Strasburg seemed to spark a glimmer of hope for the Nationals. Strasburg became a phenomenon in Washington and among Nationals fans after making his majorleague debut on June 8 against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Strasburg broke many records and threw about one third of his pitches at 98 miles per hour or faster, including two that clocked 100. Strasburg apparel seemed to be everywhere following this game. His talent seemed to be unstoppable until he was removed from a game on August 21 with an apparent injury. The Nationals later announced that he has a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow. He will require surgery and about a year of rehabilitation. Jordan Zimmermann, another talented pitcher for the Nats, will most likely replace Strasburg on the mound. This acts as hope for Strasburg as Zimmerman needed the same Tommy John surgery just August of last year. Strasburg, McNabb and every other professional, college level, and high school athlete can get hurt competing in their sport and who likes sitting out of games when you could be out there helping out the team? When a doctor or trainer says that it is not safe to participate it does not feel good and even though losing Strasburg is possibly detrimental to the Nationals he knows he needs to repair his elbow in order to come back next season and hopefully play for many more years.